Significance
There is a long tradition of wearing Rudraksha beads in India, particularly among Shaivites, due to their association with Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva himself wears rudraksha garlands.

Rudrakshas are traditionally worn by men, due to Lord Shiva being a male deity. Although there are no specific prohibitions, it is more common for women to wear beads made of other materials, such as pearls.

Rudraksha maybe strung together as a mālā and used to count the repetition of a mantra or prayer, similar to the use of rosaries in Christianity. Most garlands contain 108 beads plus one, as 108 is considered sacred and a suitable number of times to recite a short mantra. The extra bead, called the "meru", bindu or "guru bead", helps mark the beginning and end of a cycle of 108, as well as having symbolic value as a 'principle' bead. It is believed that, as a sacred material, rudraksha beads are able to hold onto to energy of the recited mantra and aid the worshiper in his or her concentration and spiritual development.

Single rudraksha beads maybe worn around the neck as a form of protection, or on the skin in other forms of jewellery such as braclets and earrings.

When the beads are strung, silk or a cotton thread is commonly used. Less often, jewellers may use copper, silver or gold wire, though the Rudraksha maybe damaged if strung too tightly.

The mālā maybe worn at all the time, including when showering. Observant Hindus may observe other rules while wearing a Rudraksha bead, such as avoiding the consumption of meat and alcohol, as part of chosen lifestyle.